Toys"R"Us gives back with Shaq

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WAYNE, N.J. — Toys“R”Us announced that it has once again teamed up with four-time NBA Champion, actor, philanthropist and entrepreneur Shaquille O’Neal to launch its eighth annual nationwide fundraising campaign to benefit the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation.

For a third consecutive year, “Shaq-A-Claus is Coming to Town” to engage and motivate Toys“R”Us customers to give back to children who need it most, according to Toys"R"Us. Throughout the duration of the campaign, customers will see brand-new in-store signage showcasing the philanthropist towering over a pyramid of children, creating the first-ever “Shaq-mas tree.” Additionally, Shaquille will make surprise visits to Toys“R”Us stores throughout the Christmas season to shop for toys to donate to Toys for Tots, spreading Christmas cheer.

Through Dec. 4, Toys“R”Us and Babies“R”Us stores nationwide will accept new, unwrapped toy donations. Cash contributions will also be accepted online at Toysrus.com/ToysforTots through Christmas Eve. To jumpstart this year’s campaign, the Toys“R”Us Children’s Fund, a public charity affiliated with Toys“R”Us, Inc., has provided a $250,000 grant to the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation.

“My Santa hat is on, and I’m stepping into the role of my favorite alter-ego, Shaq-A-Claus. It’s my personal mission to make sure no kid goes without a toy to open on Christmas, so I’m thrilled to be teaming up with Toys“R”Us for a third year to support the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation,” said O’Neal. “When I was young, I received a very special, unexpected gift, a Dr. J-signed basketball. To this day, I remember the excitement I felt, and I’d love for the millions of kids in need across the country to experience that same joy. That’s why I’ll be encouraging people every way I can to join me in giving back!”